Red Sox, D-Backs finalize Wade Miley trade

As has been rumored since Wednesday night, the Red Sox and Diamondbacks have officially agreed to a trade that will send Wade Miley to Boston in exchange for Rubby De La Rosa, Allen Webster, and Raymel Flores.

Miley joins the Red Sox as one of three starting pitchers who will enter Boston’s rotation mix, coming along with Rick Porcello (who came by way of the Detroit Tigers) and Justin Masterson (who the Red Sox signed to a 1 year/$9.5M contract). If you’ve been following Red Sox rumors and news in recent days, then you’ve likely read a fair amount on Miley, possibly including an analysis piece that I posted earlier today, so I won’t bore you with that.

However, it’s worth analyzing the package that the Red Sox put together to acquire Miley. You’re likely familiar with Rubby De La Rosa, who put together a strong start to his 2014 season but finished the year with just a 4.43 ERA (though his high-90’s fastball and power change were certainly highlights in a dismal season) in 18 starts, and Allen Webster, who has graced the Red Sox with a 6.25 ERA and 4.6 BB/9 over the last two seasons. However, you’re likely less familiar with the final piece of the trade in Raymel Flores.

Luckily, though, you’re not missing too much. Flores is not ranked on any major Red Sox prospects list, and isn’t even included on SoxProspects’ top 60 list. He is a shortstop who hit .282/.344/.354 with Low-A Lowell as a 19-year old last season but, as a glove-first infielder without much projection with the bat, he is just a throw-in in this trade.

De La Rosa and Webster both have some potential but, with the Red Sox looking to contend in 2015, Boston has acquired some certainty in their rotation. Plus, in all likelihood, both pitchers will find themselves in the bullpen within a few years, making this a solid trade for the Red Sox, who strengthen their rotation at minimal cost.